We know already that big changes are on the way for the subcompact XC40 and mid-size XC90 SUVs. But, what is going on with the compact crossover? The 2022 Volvo XC60 will follow the example of its siblings and introduce new features and styling. However, the company opted to leave it for the end. The facelift will refresh the vehicle. However, more changes could happen under the hood. The XC60 already offers enough options with T5, T6, and T8 configurations. Could we see an all-electric model? Never say no when speaking about innovations by Swedish carmaker.
Until all of this becomes official, we will analyze what can be kept from the current edition. Well, the 2021 YM is better to skip, since the big update arrives shortly after it. On the other hand, the model for next season could unveil some details about the next-gen crossover. The compact class is always hot since it combines excellent fuel economy, price, nice power outputs, and safety ratings.
2022 Volvo XC60 T5, T6
Like most small luxury SUVs, the 2022 Volvo XC60 will be equipped with a powerful four-cylinder drivetrain. An I-4 won’t be heavy and it will leave more room under the hood. Furthermore, the weight is not going to cause extra consumption. On the other hand, turbochargers are making the drivetrain powerful enough for both city and highway drive.
The base configuration on the upcoming XC60 will be T5. All other setups that include an engine with internal combustion will be based on a 2.0-liter mill. In this case, the outputs are 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. We can see other European luxury crossovers deliver similar energy, including BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes GLC. An 8-speed automatic remains a power router than distributes power to FWD or AWD.
If you select the T6 model, you are getting more power and all-wheel drive as standard. The same engine is now turbo/supercharged for a total of 315 horsepower. It doesn’t harm the fuel economy too much compared to the T5. Besides the drivetrain upgrades, the 2022 Volvo XC60 T6 will also bring more features inside the cockpit.
PHEV T8 Turns Into EV
The T8 plug-in hybrid model could become a gas-free electric vehicle. This is a step toward the complete electrification. Still, the PHEV is powerful and efficient, and it could remain a member of the lineup in 2022. It won’t be easy to replace the configuration that delivers 400 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. With the new Polestar model, these numbers gain 15 ponies and 258 lb-ft.
Still, the all-electric 2022 Volvo XC60 is in plans. It can replace T8 or join the lineup as the Recharge version, like the company did for the XC40 subcompact crossover. The mileage must be exceptional, with at least 250 miles in a single charge. Plus, the company is working on the autonomous drive. We can hear the Level 4 system is going to be available soon. Still, this is a long shot, with Tesla being a leader in the segment at Level 2. Nevertheless, differences between Level 3 and 4 are not big, so the leap is not so surprising. Engineers are also going to speed up recharging times with new technology.
2022 Volvo XC60 Release Date and Price
The arrival of the 2022 Volvo XC60 depends on the development of the all-electric version, which is on pause at the moment because of the COVID-19 outburst. Still, the Swedish company won’t waste time and we believe engineers and designers are testing many new features for the upcoming vehicles. The XC60 will stun you with styling, performance, and elegance. The first appearance the compact crossover might have in the second half of 2021. The base model will arrive first. The electric version will follow in a few months.
The starting price will go up a bit. The XC60 is already one of the most expensive models in its segment with the MSRP around $41,000. The T6 adds $6,500, but it also includes a $2,500 worth AWD upgrade. R-Design package will go over $55,000 on the T6, and $63,000 if you want the PHEV setup. Having this in mind, fans shouldn’t expect the EV under $65,000, or even $70,000., where the new Polestar edition is available.